CITB Working at Height Safety 2

Question 1

Who is permitted to erect, alter, or dismantle a scaffold on a construction site?

Accepted Answer

Only a competent person who has received appropriate training

Answer

Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, scaffolding must only be erected, altered, or dismantled by competent persons who have received adequate training, such as a CISRS card holder. Using untrained persons creates serious fall risks.

Question 2

What is the maximum height at which a stepladder should normally be used for work?

Accepted Answer

Where you can maintain three points of contact and the task is short duration

Answer

Stepladders should only be used for short-duration, light work where you can maintain three points of contact. They are not suitable for heavy or prolonged tasks. HSE guidance states they should be a last resort when other safer equipment is not practicable.

Question 3

What should be fitted to the base of a ladder to prevent it slipping on a hard surface?

Accepted Answer

Anti-slip rubber feet or a proprietary ladder mat

Answer

Ladders used on hard, smooth surfaces should have anti-slip rubber feet in good condition or be placed on a proprietary ladder stability device. Improvised methods such as rags or loose blocks are unreliable and unsafe.

Question 4

When using a harness and lanyard for fall arrest, what is the maximum free-fall distance permitted?

Accepted Answer

2 metres

Answer

The maximum permissible free-fall distance when using a fall-arrest harness and lanyard is 2 metres under UK regulations. This limits the impact forces on the body. Lanyards must be short enough, or incorporate a shock absorber, to achieve this.

Question 5

What is the minimum width for a scaffold working platform?

Accepted Answer

600mm

Answer

The minimum width for a scaffold working platform is 600mm (3 boards wide). However, for general construction work, platforms are typically wider to allow safe movement and storage of materials. The exact requirement depends on the intended use.

CITB HS&E Operatives Practice Test

CITB HS&E Operatives Practice Test

CITB Working at Height Safety 2